The 2001 Barolo La Villa has aged nicely. Dark red fruit, smoke, spices and leather are some of the naunces that wrap around the fruit. Hints of mint, autumn leaves and minerals appear later, adding further complexity. The 2001 has developed into a pretty, Burgundian Barolo. Sweet floral notes linger on the finish. The 2001 La Villa was aged in French oak barrels, 30% new. This is a terrific showing. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. I was not a big fan of Fontanafredda’s 2001 Baroli when they were first released. I thought the wines were excessively dark, heavy and ponderous. They were clearly wines made in the style that was popular at the time. Now, some years later, the truth is that the wines have aged beautifully, and far better than I ever imagined. So, what does that really mean? Locals often say Fontanafredda owns most of the very finest sites in Serralunga. Perhaps that is the key lesson to take away from tasting the 2001s. As outstanding as the wines are, it seems amply clear the estate was just scratching the surface of its potential. Today, Fontanafredda’s majority owner is Oscar Farinetti, the charismatic and hugely successful entrepreneur behind the Eataly high-end food and wine emporiums. The wines are still made by Danilo Drocco, but in a much more classic-leaning style. The Lazzarito and La Villa (recently rechristened as Vigna Paiagallo) are now part of the Casa Mirafiore brand that Farinetti spun out of Fontanafredda, one of the more genius decisions I have seen in a long time in Italian wine. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

Very spicy, with hints of chocolate and berries. Full-bodied, with loads of new wood and chewy tannins. I find it a bit too much because the vanilla character dominates, but an interesting wine. Best after 2007. 1,250 cases made, 300 cases imported.??–JS??Region: Italy / Piedmont / Barolo Select to Add